A series of four SS long service medals were introduced by Hitler on January 30TH 1938 for award to loyal long serving members in the SS-Verfügungstruppen, the SS-Totenkopfverbände and the SS-Junkerschulen. The four classes consisted of the first class for twenty-five years service, the second class for twelve years service, the third class for eight years service and the fourth class for four years service. Roughly 1 1/2", diameter, die struck bronze, third class award features a raised outer lip with central embossed SS runes encircled by an embossed oak-leaf wreath which is superimposed over a large, embossed static swastika on a subtly textured background field to the obverse. The reverse has embossed, block Latin script, "Für Treue Dienste in der SS", (For Loyal Service in the SS), superimposed over a large numeral "8", also on a subtly textured background field.
The Bronze is showing heavy oxidized black patina from the years. Has a couple small surface dings from the years. This is a die stamped original with the ridged ring on top and the teardrop suspension loop. The medal retains about 95% of its original age darkened bronze wash.. Unmarked example. |